English vocabulary · C1
Preempt
/priˈempt/ · v.
To preempt something is to act first so a problem cannot happen. You move before another person gets the chance.
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Example sentences
- Refunds preempted many complaints.
- She spoke first to preempt objections.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- pre — before (from Latin)
- empt — buy (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- PREVENT — stop something happening (Before It Happens)
- FORESTALL — act early against it (Early Action)
- BLOCK — stop a path or action (Direct Barrier)
Words with the same root
empt — buy
- exempt — free from a rule
Lesson notes
To preempt something is to act first so a problem cannot happen. You move before another person gets the chance.
Related: prevent, forestall, block. Use preempt when acting first stops a problem.
Refunds preempted many complaints. She spoke first to preempt objections.
From Latin, pre means before; empt means buy. Preempt came from buying first: now it means acting first.